He may in some measure have been influenced by his seamanlike impatience of the interference of landsmen, and his high notions of naval etiquette and quarter-deck authority; but he evidently had an honest, trusty concern for the interests of his employer.

He pictured to himself the anxious projector of the enterprise, who had disbursed so munificently in its outfit, calculating on the zeal, fidelity, and singleness of purpose of his associates and agents; while they, on the other hand, having a good ship at their disposal and a deep pocket at home to bear them out, seemed ready to loiter on every coast, and amuse themselves in every port.
On the fourth of December they came in sight of the Falkland Islands.
Having been for some time on an allowance of water, it was resolved to anchor here and obtain a supply.

A boat was sent into a small bay to take soundings.

Mr.M'Dougal and Mr.M'Kay took this occasion to go on shore, but with a request from the captain that they would not detain the ship.

Once on shore, however, they were in no haste to obey his orders, but rambled about in search of curiosities.